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Locomotive engine crashes into GOIL fuel tanker at Takoradi
A Ghana Railway Company Limited locomotive engine, on Wednesday morning crashed into a GOIL fuel tanker at the rail crossing, near Takoradi Container Terminal (TACOTEL) on the Sekondi-Takoradi road, in the Western Region.
The incident caused spillage of huge volumes of diesel fuel into the neighbourhood in New Takoradi.
The Crime Officer at the Marine Police in Takoradi, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Solomon Debi, who confirmed the story to the Ghanaian Times, said the driver of the tanker, Mohammed Abubakar, 48, had been arrested.
He, however, said the locomotive driver is being sought to assist police in investigations.
ASP Debi said, “We are investigating the matter. The tanker driver claimed his engine suddenly ceased, that’s why the tanker stopped all of a sudden on the rail line. He said he got down and was stopping the locomotive engine, but, it couldn’t stop.”
Eyewitnesses narrated that the bulk road vehicle with registration number AW 2705-11, loaded with diesel stopped on the rail tracks due to engine failure.
He said the locomotive engine emerged from the Railway headquarters in Takoradi and on getting to the scene could not stop and run into the truck and overturned It.”
Ghanaian Times was told that the automatic signaling system at the level crossing was not functioning at the time of the crash.
The locomotive engine that emerged from the harbour enroute to Kojokrom, crashed and grazed that tanker causing huge damage.
“The driver and the mate of the tanker escaped unhurt while the locomotive engine continued gliding to Kojokrom,” Charles Egyir, an eyewitness recalled.
Another eyewitness recalled, the timely arrival of police crash team and deployment of five fire tenders to the scene prevented what could have become another explosive situation in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis, following the Apollo junction gas explosion, some few weeks ago.
He said “they quickly spread the diesel tanker with foam powder to avoid any combustion and explosion and in about two hours the situation had been controlled”.
Meanwhile, the crash team had towed the head of the fuel tanker to allow traffic flow on the Sekondi-Takoradi road.
FROM CLEMENT ADZEI BOYE, TAKORADI
The Government of Ghana has expressed profound sadness over the passing of His Majesty Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, King of Dagbon.
In a statement issued on Monday, President John Dramani Mahama, on behalf of the Government, extended his deepest condolences to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon, and the entire nation.
“The Government of Ghana has received with profound sadness the news of the passing of His Majesty Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II,” the statement said.
President Mahama described the late King as a distinguished traditional ruler whose reign was defined by healing, reconciliation, and lasting peace in Dagbon following years of conflict.
The statement noted that His Majesty’s “unwavering commitment to unity, stability, and the welfare of his people created an enabling environment for development”and strengthened the partnership between traditional authorities and Government in advancing progress across Dagbon and Ghana.
The Government paid tribute to the life and legacy of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, and honoured his invaluable service to the nation.
“May his wisdom, leadership, and dedication to peace continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.
The passing of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II marks the end of an era for Dagbon, which saw significant strides in unity and development under his leadership.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Hohoe Municipality Command, has conducted fire safety inspections and public education at selected fuel filling stations within the municipality.
The exercise, held from July 3, 2026 to July 5, 2025 was led by the Municipal Commander, DO III Bismark Hosu-Porbley.
During the inspection, the team assessed the fire safety preparedness of the facilities. Staff were also educated on fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and the proper use of firefighting equipment.
Management of the affected fuel stations expressed appreciation for the exercise and pledged to comply with the recommended safety measures.
The GNFS said the exercise reaffirms its commitment to continuous fire safety awareness and risk reduction to safeguard lives and property.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
